Dear Readers,
Welcome to our October edition of Theatre View. We hope you enjoy reading through this bumper edition.
We have a very special ‘meet the team’ section on page 4 where you can find out a bit more about the ‘groupies’ and on page 5 you can read about our WI specialist Theresa’s client event at & JULIET
Some of the team recently travelled to Manchester to see MRS DOUBTFIRE THE MUSICAL. It was a great event and the show was sensational. I’m really excited for it to transfer to London as this will be a great show for groups. We are now on sale with AIN’T TOO PROUD: THE LIFE & TIMES OF THE TEMPTATIONS at the Prince Edward Theatre and we are expecting more announcements soon so make sure you are signed up to our mailing list to be the first to get updates and hear our news.
Recent on-sales include, CIRQUE DU SOLEIL, MOTHER GOOSE, THE LEHMAN TRILOGY OKLAHOMA! and 42ND STREET. If you haven’t booked, then contact your account handler to find out about dates and rates.
Magazine highlights are interviews with the cast of PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD, & JULIET and BACK TO THE FUTURE THE MUSICAL Group Line will be exhibiting at the World Travel Market this year from 7th9th November, so if you are attending, please pop along to see us.
Lastly, it was great to be joined by some clients at the Group Leisure & Travel Awards this month. We are so proud to be winners and I would like to thank everyone that voted for us.
Kindest regards, Grant Swaine Head of Group Sales
1174
Job title: Head of Group Sales
Length of service: 21 years
Favourite show: The Lion King Hobbies: Going to the theatre, spending time with family and watching Chelsea play.
Job title: Sales Campaign Manager
Length of service: 12 years
Favourite show: Wicked Hobbies: Socialising with friends, watching box sets and going to concerts.
Job title: Groups Account Manager
Length of service: 7 years
Favourite show: Come From Away Hobbies: Karaoke.
Job title: Groups Account Handler
Length of service: 4 years
Favourite show: & Juliet Hobbies: Ice-Skating.
Job title: Groups Account Handler
Length of service: 6 years
Favourite show: Back to the Future The Musical Hobbies: Going to gigs and football matches.
Job title: Groups Account Handler
Length of service: 6 years
Favourite show: The Play That Goes Wrong Hobbies: Playing, writing and listening to music.
MEMBER
Job title: Groups Account Manager
Length of service: 3 months
Favourite show: Grease The Musical
Hobbies: Watching Portsmouth F.C. and being an ambassador for anti-sexism in football campaign - Her Game Too. I also love live music.
Job title: Groups Account Manager
Length of service: 2 months
Favourite show: Matilda The Musical Hobbies: I really enjoy reading and walking by the river.
Job title: Groups Account Handler
Length of service: 2 months
Favourite show: Jersey Boys
Hobbies: Playing golf and watching horse racing.
I am delighted to introduce myself as the Group Line Women’s Institute Expert. Over the last 15+ years I have specialised in looking after all the WI groups who regularly book with us at Group Line and work with many amazing WI groups from across the Southeast & further – from the smallest rural WI to larger or newer town/city Institutes. With so many groups from a large nationwide organisations booking with us, it gives Group Line great opportunities to offer a tailored booking service and obtain fantastic, exclusive offers, events & previews with many top shows.
Every year I attend the WI AGM with the Group Line /ATG company stand – it was amazing to meet so many familiar and new WI members in person at the 2022 AGM back in June in Liverpool.
With all WI groups meeting in person now, I am delighted to be busier than ever helping WI groups plan for their Autumn and Winter programmes. As well as all our fantastic standard Group Line group rates, we now have several new exclusive group rates for the WI, some of which are available for groups as small as 6. These mini group rates are proving a great way for new WI group organisers to start a theatre group.
I have also recently restarted our exclusive WI preview afternoons – offering regular & new WI group bookers the opportunity to preview a show together. Over 30 WI Group Leaders joined us at & JULIET at the end of September and had a fantastic afternoon previewing the show with a glass of fizz! These events are a wonderful opportunity for us to get to know more WI members to help us develop the best service & rates - and also give great inspiration to group leaders looking for a show to recommend as a WI outing.
One of the nicest parts of my role is receiving feedback from WI group leaders after taking their members to see a show – it is always so lovely to hear how much the group enjoyed the show. Many messages are simply just..... “we had a fantastic & memorable time at the theatre – thank you for helping arrange such great seats - everybody wants to plan another theatre visit – what can you recommend for us next?!”
If you are a WI group organiser or have friends/ family in the WI, please do get in touch – I would be delighted to hear from you and keep you updated with our exclusive WI offers & events.
Theresa Baker, WI Groups, 0208 544 7549, theresabaker@theambassadors.com
Job title: Groups Account Handler
Length of service: 20 years
Favourite show: Pretty Woman: The Musical
Hobbies: Swimming, Cooking, Wine, Bell Ringing.
Make a date with one of the most beloved romantic comedies of all time
Head to Beverly Hills and experience one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time live on stage at its glamorous home – the Savoy Theatre, in the heart of the glitz of the West End!
Vivian and Edward are unlikely soulmates who overcome all odds to find each other… and themselves. Experience the moments you love from the movie—and get to know
these iconic characters in a whole new way—in this dazzlingly joyous theatrical take on a love story for the ages.
Brought to life by a powerhouse creative team representing the best of music, Hollywood and Broadway including Bryan Adams & Jim Vallance and Jerry Mitchell
PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL is guaranteed to lift your spirits and light up your heart.
We recently interviewed Danny Mac who plays Edward. Read on to hear what he had to say…
How would you describe PRETTY WOMAN:
THE MUSICAL to someone that hasn’t seen it before?
It’s a love story between two very unexpected characters who meet and help each other find themselves.
What drew you to the part of Edward?
The chance to work with Jerry Mitchell. I have known him for years – since my wife worked with him on LEGALLY BLONDE. I have wanted to work with him for a long time. The opportunity came up and the timing was perfect. It’s a great part to play in the west end and it was too good a part to turn down.
What is your favourite thing about playing Edward?
He does so much but does so little. The challenge is to find so much within a role that doesn’t say much. He gets a lot of songs which is great, which opens the audiences eyes to what Edward is thinking which doesn’t happen in the movie so much. That was my biggest hurdle and why I like playing him so much. Now is that chance to overcome that and find out who he is and share that with the audience.
You have been in many stage productions and tv shows. Do you have a favourite one to date?
It’s a tough one. I have had a lot of brilliant opportunities. Being in this show is a massive highlight for me. Its such a great character in a great show in the West End, but I think Joe Gillis in SUNSET BOULEVARD was a role I just fell in love with. It was the right place, right time and right energy for me as an actor to take that part on.
Why do you love theatre?
I love theatre because I think that it gives you a chance to explore who we are, what we are, what we want to be, what we don’t want to be and challenge ourselves every day and ask questions. It puts the people at the back at the front. It makes us think about all the positives and negatives in society and makes us a better community. And that’s what theatre is about. Its about community and it was so hard when we didn’t have it. Its what drew everyone back once theatre reopened again.
booking through to April 2023!
Enter a world of splendour and romance, of eyepopping excess, of glitz, grandeur, and glory!
A world where Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment.
Welcome to MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL!
Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mashup extravaganza. Directed by Tony Award
winner Alex Timbers, MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL is a theatrical celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and — above all — Love.
With a book by Tony Award winner John Logan; music supervision, orchestrations, and arrangements by Tony Award winner Justin Levine; and choreography by Tony Award winner Sonya Tayeh MOULIN ROUGE! is more than a musical — it is a state of mind.
MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL
the
Winning a record-breaking seven Olivier Awards including Best Musical Revival, this intimate and electrifying new production of CABARET is London’s hottest ticket. Welcome to the Kit Kat Club.
One of the most successful musicals of all time, this new West End production features the songs Wilkommen, Don’t Tell Mama, Mein Herr, Maybe This Time, Money and the title number Cabaret – with Berlin’s famous Kit Kat Club brought to life through the transformation of London’s Playhouse Theatre.
CABARET AT THE KIT KAT CLUB has music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb and a book by Joe Masteroff – based on the play by John Van Druten and stories by Christopher Isherwood
The Kit Kat Club welcomed a brand new starstudded cast this month.
Fresh from a starring role and BAFTA nomination for It’s A Sin, Callum Scott Howells will join as the Emcee - with Hollywood actress and Emmy award nominee Madeline Brewer (Handmaid’s Tale, Orange is the New Black, Hustlers) taking over as Sally Bowles. Sid Sagar (Cliff Bradshaw), Michelle Bishop (Fraulein Kost) and Danny Mahoney (Ernst Ludwig) will also join the company.
Callum Scott Howells is best known for playing Colin in Russell T Davies’ hit Channel 4 drama It’s a Sin. For his performance as Colin, Callum won the BAFTA Cymru Award for Leading Actor and the Royal Television Society Award for Best Male Actor. For the same role, he was twice nominated at the 2022 BAFTA Television Awards; for Best Supporting Actor and Virgin Media’s Must See Moment.
Madeline Brewer has starred as Janine Lindo in all four seasons of Hulu’s hit drama The Handmaid’s Tale, for which she was nominated for the Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. She will star in the fifth season of the show, that premiered this September. Madeline began her career portraying Tricia Miller in the Netflix series Orange is the New Black.
is it.
is the one”
Daily Telegraph
DISNEY’S THE LION KING at the Lyceum Theatre is booking through to 15 October 2023
Groups of 9+: Stalls & Royal Circle reduced to £49.50, Grand Circle reduced to £39.50
Groups of 20+: Stalls & Royal Circle reduced to £45.00, Grand Circle reduced to £35.00
Valid Tuesday-Friday evenings & Wednesday matinees
Senior groups of 10+: Stalls & Royal Circle reduced to £35.00
Valid on Wednesday matinees & evenings
School groups of 10+: Stalls & Royal Circle reduced to £29.50, Grand Circle reduced to £22.50
Valid Tuesday-Thursday evenings & Wednesday matinees - peak performances
+ 1 free teacher per 10 paid
School groups of 10+: Stalls & Royal Circle reduced to £25.00, Grand Circle reduced to £19.50
Valid Tuesday-Thursday evenings & Wednesday matinees - off-peak performances
+ 1 free teacher per 10 paid
As the sun rises and the city reawakens, watch in awe as giraffes strut, gazelles leap and birds swoop bringing the Serengeti, and the story of Simba, to life all around you… Ingenious puppetry, stunning effects and the enchanting music by Elton John, Tim Rice and Lebo M will transport you to the heart of the African Pridelands.
Disney’s award-winning musical THE LION KING explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music. It follows the powerful story of Simba as he journeys from
wide-eyed cub to his destined role as King of the Pridelands.
Directed by Julie Taymor, this captivating reimagining of the beloved Disney animated feature won 6 Tony awards when it premiered on Broadway in 1997. Since then, the production has played in theatres all over the world, and embarked on multiple UK, US and international tours.
With a book by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi and music and lyrics byElton John, Tim Rice
University/Full time education groups of 10+: Stalls & Royal Circle reduced to £35.00, Grand Circle reduced to £29.50
Valid Tuesday-Thursday evenings & Wednesday matinees
Terms & conditions and exclusions apply. Rates subject to availability and change without notice. Correct at time of print.
and Lebo M, the show has some of the most memorable songs in the Disney musical theatre canon, including Circle of Life, Hakuna Matata and Can You Feel the Love Tonight.
7,000 Stranded Passengers. One Small Town. A Remarkable True Story.
Winner of Best New Musical across the globe, COME FROM AWAY shares the incredible real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers from all over the world who were grounded in Canada during the wake of 9/11, and the small Newfoundland community that invited these ‘come from aways’ into their lives.
Experience the joy, heartache and soaring music as the spirited locals and global passengers overcome their fears and a world of cultural differences to come together and forge friendships that will stay with them forever. The first female American Airlines captain, the quick-thinking town mayor,
the mother of a New York firefighter and the eager local news reporter are among the many real characters caught at the start of the moment that changed the course of history, and whose stories became a true celebration of hope, humanity and unity.
Tony Award-winning director Christopher Ashley alongside Olivier Award winning writers Irene Sankoff and David Hein bring this amazing story to life in a life-affirming production that has audiences on their feet every single night.
Come on in. The door is open and the kettle is on.
“One of the most successful musicals of all time” (BBC News), WICKED is already the 9th longest running West End musical of all time.
Based on the best-selling novel by Gregory Maguire and written by Emmy and Tony Award nominee Winnie Holzman, the acclaimed musical features show-stopping songs by multi-Oscar and Grammy Award-winner Stephen Schwartz
The empowering tale of two remarkable women, WICKED is a stunning re-imagining of the beloved ‘Wizard of Oz’ story by L. Frank Baum, first published as ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ in 1900.
Winner of over 100 major awards, the classic musical is one of the West End and Broadway’s most popular, spectacular and unforgettable shows. Now in its 17th year, the London production recently welcomed its 11 millionth customer.
Whether you’re organising employee benefits and incentives, planning a day trip for your club, association, society or school, looking for a spectacular night of live entertainment after a day of meetings or simply purchasing tickets for a party of friends, family or clients, WICKED provides an unmissable experience.
The Apollo Victoria Theatre, home to WICKED since its London premiere in 2006, is located in the heart of Royal London, with Buckingham Palace, The Royal Mews, The Guard’s Museum and two Royal Parks just minutes away. There are also more than 50 restaurants within a 10 minute walk.
The theatre is opposite London Victoria Mainline and Underground stations and coaches can set down and pick up directly outside the Vauxhall Bridge Road entrance/ exit.
WICKED at the Apollo Victoria Theatre is booking through to 2 June 2024
Groups of 10+: Price bands A & B reduced to £35, price bands C & D reduced to £29.50
+ 1 free place per group
Groups of 35+: Price bands A & B reduced to £32.50, price bands C & D reduced to £25.00
+ 1 free place per group
Valid Tuesday-Thursday evenings & Wednesday matinees on off-peak performances
Groups of 10+: Price bands A & B reduced to £42.50, price bands C & D reduced to £35
How does it feel to be part of the WICKED family?
It is a great feeling to be part of the WICKED family and especially to have been cast as Fiyero. The show has been running in London since 2006 and both the musical and this role have become iconic in the West End. To be a small part of the show’s history and follow on from the incredible actors who have played the role before me is amazing. I feel incredibly honoured and humbled to be cast as the first black actor to play Fiyero in the West End, as I know this casting is bigger than me in terms of what it means to my fellow black performers and aspiring performers within the theatre community. Representation in
theatre is so important, and this cast is the most diverse cast to date. I’m so proud to be a part of that.
What’s your favourite thing about your character?
My favourite thing about Fiyero is his confidence and rebelliousness at the beginning of the show. It is really fun to play him in Act one as the character is quite different from my personality. I also really enjoy the journey that the character goes on, but I don’t want to give too much away if you haven’t seen the show yet!
Which song in the show resonates with you the most?
‘For Good’. I love the message about the importance of friendship
+ 1 free place per group
Valid Friday evenings and Saturday & Sunday matinees
Senior groups of 10+: Price band A reduced to £22.50
Valid on Wednesday matinees & evenings
School groups of 10+: Price bands A & B reduced to £25, price bands C & D reduced to £19.50
+ 1 free teacher per 10 paid
Valid Tuesday-Thursday evenings & Wednesday matinees
Terms & conditions and exclusions apply. Rates subject to availability and change without notice. Correct at time of print.
in the song and I love the line ‘Because I knew you, I have been changed for good’. I think so many people can also relate to that line as they have had people in their lives that have changed them for the better, and vice versa. What do you think makes WICKED so special?
I think the show’s universal messages of acceptance and not judging people when you first meet them, make WICKED so special. They are messages that are relatable to all the audience no matter their age, race, religion or sexual orientation.
recently interviewed Ryan Reid, who plays Fiyero
. Read on to see what he had to say…
JERSEY BOYS is London’s favourite feel-good musical for a reason, packed with all the Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons hits you know and love, including ‘Beggin’, ‘Sherry’, ‘Walk Like A Man’, ‘1963 (Oh What a Night)’, ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’, ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’, ‘Working My Way Back to You’, ‘Who Loves You’ and many, many more.
Staged by the original Broadway creative team and featuring an all-
new cast, JERSEY BOYS tells the story of four guys from New Jersey who had a sound nobody had ever heard… and the radio just couldn’t get enough of.
So don’t delay, come and be part of the action of this Tony Award®-winning true-life musical phenomenon and join us at the newly refurbished Trafalgar Theatre at Trafalgar Square for an experience that’s just too good to be true!
“I challenge anyone to see this show and not have a blast”- The New European
There’s magic in every moment in HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD, the most awarded play in history and “one of the most defining pop culture events of the decade” (Forbes). And now, the 8th Harry Potter story is bringing the magic back to London’s West End.
19 years after Harry, Ron, and Hermione saved the wizarding world, they’re back on a most extraordinary new adventure –this time, joined by a brave new generation that has only just arrived at the legendary Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Prepare for spectacular spells, a mind-blowing race through time, and an epic battle to stop mysterious forces, all while the future hangs in the balance.
HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD at the Palace Theatre is booking through to 30 July 2023 ACCELERATOR RATE!
Groups of 10+: £75/£65 seats reduced to £45 per part
Valid on Wednesday performances from 4 January - 21 June 2023
School groups of 10+: £42.50 & £25 seats in the Balcony reduced to £15 per part + 1 free teacher per 10 paid
Valid on Friday performances from 6 January - 16 June 2023 Book by 1 December 2022
This one-of-a-kind theatrical experience is packed with “thrilling theatricality and pulse-pounding storytelling” (The Hollywood Reporter). It will leave you “audibly wowed, cheering and gasping” (The Telegraph), as “visions of pure enchantment send shivers down your spine” (Rolling Stone). “It is out of this world, it’s magic, it’s a hit” (The Times).
Based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD, a new play by Jack Thorne received its world premiere in London’s West End at the Palace Theatre in summer 2016.
Groups of 10+: £75/£67.50 seats reduced to £49.50 per part Valid on Wednesday performances School groups of 10+: Selected seats in the Grand Circle reduced to £20 per part + 1 free teacher per 10 paid Valid Wednesday & Friday performances
Terms & conditions and exclusions apply. Rates subject to availability and change without notice. Correct at time of print.
Congratulations on securing the lead role of Harry Potter. Please tell us about the audition process.
Thanks so much. Feels like the auditions were a long time ago. you know pre pandemic - in that other world of carefree hope and joy. But I think I remember doing a pretty intense physical audition, and then getting to work on a couple of scenes with John Tiffany, which was very enjoyable.
How are rehearsals going?
Rehearsals are going very well. I’ve never worked on such a big show before, with so many people. It’s an incredible company, everyone is REALLY good
Had you seen the show before you secured the role?
No, I hadn’t seen it. and still haven’t. So it’s all new to me. and terrifying. and exciting.
Have you been given any advice from the current Harry Potter – Jim Fish?
No, I haven’t managed to speak to Jim Fish yet. But I did exchange some messages with Jamie Parker - who I worked with on Henry IV at the globe. He gave me some top tips, but I can’t reveal them as they are top secret
You have appeared in dramas including The Crown and Casualty and theatre shows
including Bedlam and Farinelli and the King. How does performing on stage compare to appearing in dramas?
Being on stage, as a performer, you have a live dynamic relationship with the audience, and that’s where the performance exists. Obviously you don’t get that when you work on screen - you do your work, then the film/tv show is crafted in the edit, and then it’s consumed by the audience.
There are also processual differences. It’s rare to have much rehearsal time in tv and film, so you tend to do a lot of the preparatory work on your own in advance of coming together with your colleagues. In that sense, working in theatre tends to be more collaborative. you can work things out and discover things with other people
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
I try to vary my preparation and approach, so I don’t get stuck in the same groove
Why should a group book to see HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD?
I watched the end of part 1 in the tech rehearsal the other day, and honestly it blew my mind. It was terrifying, utterly beautiful and incredibly moving. I genuinely think it’s one of the most exciting theatrical experiences you could have.
The world’s most iconic musical
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is now playing at Her Majesty’s Theatre and is now celebrating over 35 years in London’s West End.
Experience the thrill of the West End’s most haunting love story, starring double Olivier Award nominee Killian Donnelly as The Phantom, Lucy St. Louis as Christine Daaé and Matt Blaker as Raoul.
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is widely considered one of the most beautiful and spectacular productions in history, playing to over 145 million people in 41 countries and 183 cities in 17 languages. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s romantic, haunting and soaring score includes The Music of the Night, All I Ask of You, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again, Masquerade and the iconic title song. It tells the tale of a disfigured musical genius known only as ‘The Phantom’ who haunts the depths of the Paris Opera House. Mesmerised by the talents and beauty of a young soprano – Christine, the Phantom lures her as his protégé and falls fiercely in love with her.
The musical first opened in 1986 with Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman in the leading roles. Since then The Phantom of the Opera has
gone on to become one of the highest-grossing musicals of all time, winning 70 major theatre awards worldwide.
The Phantom Awaits…
“Scarily good – this is the West End at its crowd-pleasing best” – Evening Standard
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA at Her Majesty’s
Theatre is booking through to 4 March 2023
Groups of 10+: Best available reduced to £47.50
Valid Monday-Friday evenings
Groups of 20+: Best available reduced to £39.50
Valid Monday-Thursday evenings
Groups of 40+: Best available reduced to £39.50
Valid on Friday evenings
Groups of 10+: Best available reduced to £35
Valid on Wednesday matinees
School groups of 10+: Grand Circle seats reduced to £27.50
+ 1 free teacher per 10 paid
Valid Monday-Thursday evenings & Wednesday matinees
Terms & conditions and exclusions apply. Rates subject to availability and change without notice. Correct at time of print.
We recently interviewed Sam Crane who is taking over the role of Harry Potter. Read on to see what he had to say…
Join us for GUYS & DOLLS as The Bridge transforms for one of the greatest musicals of all time. It has more hit songs, more laughs and more romance than any show ever written.
The seating is wrapped around the action while the immersive tickets transport you to the streets of Manhattan and the bars of Havana in the unlikeliest of love stories.
In A Midsummer Night’s Dream, you raved with us in the forest. In Julius Caesar, you ran wild with us as the mob. Now join us on Broadway for the biggest party yet.
Nicholas Hytner will direct GUYS & DOLLS, a musical fable of Broadway based on the story and characters of Damon Runyon, with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser and book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows Designs are by Bunny Christie with choreography by Arlene Phillips, associate direction and choreography by James Cousins, lighting by Paule Constable, sound by Paul Arditti, musical direction by Tom Brady, orchestrations by Charlie Rosen and casting by Charlotte Sutton. Casting for GUYS & DOLLS will be announced at a later date.
It’s electrified audiences in London, New York, Toronto and Germany, and won the audience-voted Evening Standard Award for Best New Musical. Now, Jim Steinman’s spectacular musical BAT OUT OF HELL hits the highway back to London for a limited season at the Peacock Theatre.
Bringing to life the legendary anthems of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf, this critically acclaimed production uniquely combines the magic and excitement of a musical with the immense energy of rock ‘n’ roll.
Join Strat, the forever young leader of rebellious gang ‘The Lost’ as he falls in love with Raven, the beautiful daughter of the tyrannical ruler of Obsidian.
This award-winning wild child musical thunders through powerhouse hits including I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That), Paradise By The Dashboard Light, Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad, Dead Ringer For Love and Bat Out of Hell, in an exciting over-thetop theatrical spectacle unlike any other.
THE BEST NIGHT OUT –GUARANTEED (with your clothes on!)
BAT OUT OF HELL dedicates this tour to the memory of Jim Steinman (November 1, 1947 - April 19, 2021) and Meat Loaf (September 27, 1947 - January 20, 2022)
Groups from just £32.50!
AIN’T TOO PROUD is the exhilarating new musical following the remarkable journey of The Temptations from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Tony award-winning choreography and Grammy award-winning music tell a thrilling story of brotherhood, loyalty and betrayal set to the beat of the group’s most treasured hits, including My Girl, Just My Imagination, Get Ready, Papa Was a Rolling Stone and so many more.
With their signature dance moves and unmistakable harmonies, The Temptations rose to the top of the charts with a staggering 42 Top-Ten Hits and 14 Number Ones. The rest is history. Experience the sound of genius in the making. Begins March 2023 at the Prince Edward Theatre, London. Images are from the original Broadway cast. London cast is to be announced.
AIN’T TOO PROUD
Groups
Groups
Groups
Disney’s FROZEN – the musical that’s sure to give you chills – is now playing at Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Brimming with powerful storytelling, humour and heart, FROZEN has taken the West End by storm, at the beautifully restored Theatre Royal Drury Lane. With incredible special effects, jaw-dropping scenery and an unforgettable score from Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, writers of the international smash-hit Let It Go, FROZEN is an
exhilarating experience that will delight groups of all ages.
This heart-melting theatrical production is brought to spectacular life on stage by a multi-award-winning creative team, led by Tony® and Olivier Award-winning director Michael Grandage and featuring a book by Academy® and BAFTA Award winner Jennifer Lee
There aren’t many shows whose Tony Award-winning director is also responsible for its costumes, let alone masks, puppets and additional lyrics: Julie Taymor’s multiple contributions on The Lion King offer testament to what a unique theatre artist she is.
Julie Taymor had never directed commercially on Broadway when the call came from Disney’s Thomas Schumacher to adapt its blockbuster movie for the stage. Schumacher realised that if you’re going to translate so widely loved a work to a fresh medium, complete with its own dictates and demands, who better to approach than a visionary director who is also an innovator, someone who could push the celluloid source toward an altogether new place?
Julie Taymor believes in total theatre.
Having seized upon the challenges involved in translating The Lion King for the stage, she was keen to do something
resembling a makeover. This was not to be the animated film simply transcribed to the stage. Instead, a re-imagining that could honour what the theatre does uniquely well.
To understand how Julie Taymor got to this place is to appreciate the appetite for artistic adventure. The Massachusettsborn artist began working in the theatre at the age of 11 and by 21 was on her way to Indonesia for four years. In Asian theatre and opera, she found a sense of economy of means and a visual metaphor; one that can express primal emotions and myth, as well as non-realistic responses to a shared experience. These influences would allow Julie Taymor to tell Simba’s tale with a theatrical gravity that would be amplified by as much stage magic as
Celebrating the atavistic appeal to the imagination that lies at the heart of what the theatre is.
she could bring to the task.
She also knew that there was no need to patronise her audience, whose imaginations could be spurred on by the ingenuity with which events unfold.
It was Julie Taymor who insisted that the stage musical chime to a multicultural beat and that the piece be widened so that it communicates a dream of Africa. Since theatre has the power to awaken the imagination, her governing approach to the material would celebrate exactly that, giving a human cast its due even as they bring to life the animal kingdom. Both human and animal aspects co-exist to defining effect throughout the show.
She refers to this dual perspective as “the double event”, whereby the techniques which bring the savannah to life remain visible. In this theatrical vision, the puppeteers aren’t hidden from view as they pull the strings; they are actors and dancers who incarnate a world populated by lions, yes, but also hyenas, ostriches, giraffes and more.
Away from the world of live performance,
Julie Taymor’s unique vision can be seen in her screen work, including a pair of films, Titus and The Tempest, which tweak Shakespeare's works in interesting ways to bring them to vivid cinematic life.
Her Frida was nominated for six Academy Awards (including one for Julie Taymor for Best Song) and earned an Oscar for her partner Elliot Goldenthal’s original score. The 2007 Beatles-themed Across The Universe offers a magical mystery tour of a level of invention that doubtless even The Fab Four never quite envisioned.
In the 24 years since The Lion King first opened on Broadway, one has often heard the show spoken of in relation to its opening number, “Circle of Life”, which
turns the auditorium into a gathering of animals allowing anthropomorphised elephants and other species to brush against the audience on their way to the stage. (In much the same way, the second act at one point makes an aviary out of the playhouse.) Here, Julie Taymor is celebrating the atavistic appeal to the imagination that lies at the heart of what the theatre is. That’s an achievement of which she, as the visionary behind Pride Rock and its inhabitants, should be immensely proud.
Matt Wolf
Matt Wolf is London theatre critic for The International New York Times (formerly The International Herald Tribune) and theatre editor at www.theartsdesk.com
Following two smash hit London seasons and the WhatsOnStage award for BEST NEW MUSICAL, HEATHERS THE MUSICAL, the wickedly funny and high-octane rock musical continues at its original London home at The Other Palace, having re-opened on 25 November 2021, now until 19 February 2023.
Greetings and salutations. Welcome to Westerberg High where Veronica Sawyer is just another nobody dreaming of a better day. But when she joins the beautiful and impossibly cruel Heathers and her dreams of popularity may finally come true, mysterious teen rebel JD teaches her that it might kill to be a nobody, but it is murder being a somebody… Wickedly funny and with dazzling book, music and lyrics by Kevin Murphy and Laurence O’Keefe, HEATHERS THE MUSICAL is based on one of the greatest cult teen films of all time, and starred Winona Ryder and Christian Slater, and produced by Bill Kenwright and Paul TaylorMills. With direction from Andy Fickman and electrifying choreography by Gary Lloyd, this is one class production you can’t afford to skip.
MATILDA THE MUSICAL is the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by the incomparable Roald Dahl
With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin,
MATILDA THE MUSICAL is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.
Winner of 99 international awards, including 24 for Best Musical, MATILDA has been playing at the Cambridge Theatre in London’s West End for over a decade, where it continues to delight audiences of all ages.
MATILDA THE MUSICAL at the Cambridge Theatre is booking through to 28 May 2023
ACCELERATOR RATE*
Groups of 6+: Best available seats reduced to £42.50
Groups of 10+ Best available seats reduced to £35.00
Groups of 20+ Best available seats reduced to £32.50
Valid Tuesday & Wednesday evenings
*Must be paid 4 weeks or more before performance date.
As well as offering great rates for groups and schools, the Royal Shakespeare Company have created a free online resource to give schools insights into the process of staging this awardwinning musical.
These include teacher notes full of ideas for how to prepare your students for seeing the production, and a programme of work which aims to give young people the inspiration, confidence and skills to develop their own writing.
“Unique and unforgettable” – Rolling Stone
Groups of 6+: Best available seats reduced to £47.50
Groups of 10+ Best available seats reduced to £39.50
Valid Tuesday-Friday evenings & Wednesday matinees
School groups of 10+: Best available seats reduced to £25.00
+ 1 free teacher per 10 paid
Valid Tuesday-Thursday evenings & Wednesday matinees
Terms & conditions and exclusions apply. Rates subject to availability and change without notice. Correct at time of print.
Romeo who?! With her bags packed and ready to escape Verona, Juliet recovers from heartbreak in the best way possible… by dancing the night away with her best friends by her side! But when the sparkle fades, the confetti falls and reality catches up, it’s clear that Juliet needs to face her past in order to find her future. Can she reclaim a story that has been written in the stars? Is there really life after Romeo… or could he be worth one more try?
Come along for the ride as the original Anne Hathaway takes on her husband William Shakespeare to remix his legendary play. As comedy meets tragedy, will Juliet get the ending she truly deserves? And most importantly, can their love survive this battle of wills?
Fabulously fresh and riotously
funny, & JULIET explodes with dozens of pop anthems you already know and love by legendary songwriter Max Martin, including …Baby One More Time, Since U Been Gone, Roar, It’s My Life, I Want It That Way, and Can’t Stop the Feeling!
Brought to life by an awardwinning creative team, this vibrant, colourful and timely musical is directed by Luke Sheppard (In the Heights) with a story by David West Read (Netflix’s Schitt’s Creek), electrifying choreography from Jennifer Weber and stunning set design from Soutra Gilmour
“One of the best new musicals in a while and then some” (WhatsOnStage), & JULIET is a riotous blast of fun so book now and join the celebration this autumn!
We recently interviewed original cast member Cassidy Janson who plays Anne Hathaway. Read on to see what she had to say…
You have been in the show from the very beginning since it opened in Manchester in 2019. How has the show evolved over time?
When we returned to London, there were a few rewrites & reblocking but it was roughly the same as the Manchester version
You play Anne Hathaway in the show. Please tell us a bit about her.
She is William Shakespeare’s wife, 8 years his senior, who’s smart and very much a match for his intellect.
What is your favourite song in the show to perform?
Domino, it’s fun and starts the show on a surprising new journey. If you could play any other part in the show, what part would you play?
The Nurse, she’s so funny and I love Teenage Dream – it’s my favourite number in the show.
The show looks so much fun to be a part of. Do you have fun backstage?
Yes, it’s a good team of fun people so backstage is a pleasure every show.
You’ve starred in multiple West End shows including Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Avenue Q and Wicked. Do you have a favourite role?
Probably a close call between them.
Why should groups book to see the show?
Because it’s the most uplifting, joyous show and so funny.
Sum up the show in 3 words.
Funny, joyous, relatable.
Bourne’s SLEEPING BEAUTY reawakens
Matthew Bourne’s award-winning SLEEPING BEAUTY reawakens, celebrating 10 years since its premiere at Sadler’s Wells.
Enter a wondrous world of magical fairies and vampires, where the timeless tale of good vs evil is turned upside-down, creating a supernatural love story that even
the passage of time itself cannot hinder. Will Princess Aurora ever find her true love again?
With an unforgettable score, sumptuous staging and masterly story-telling, the beloved fairy tale is brought to life by the uniquely talented New Adventures company.
Do not miss the multi awardwinning international smash hit THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG now the longest running comedy in the West End.
The Cornley Drama Society are putting on a 1920s murder mystery, but as the title suggests, everything that can go wrong… does! As the accident prone thesps battle on against all the odds to reach their final curtain call, hilarious results ensue!
Hailed ‘a gut-busting hit’ by the New York Times, Mischief’s THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG has unexpectedly received a host of celebrity endorsements from the likes of Joanna Lumley ‘We laughed until the tears ran down our faces, it has to be seen’ to Ant & Dec ‘The funniest show we’ve seen! If you can get a ticket, go!’
Don’t miss this brilliantly funny comedy, shockingly celebrating 8 chaotic years at London’s Duchess Theatre.
The electrifying GET UP STAND UP! THE BOB MARLEY MUSICAL must end its current run at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue on the 8th January 2023. Celebrating Bob Marley as a global icon of peace, freedom and love, “a joyful night out that is a major and important cultural event.” The Evening Standard.
Born in the hills of rural Jamaica, part warrior part rock star, Bob Marley changed the world with his inspirational message, revolutionary spirit and musical vision. With unlimited access to Marley’s most loved songs, the multi award-winning team of Lee Hall (writer), Clint Dyer (director)
GET UP STAND UP! THE BOB MARLEY MUSICAL at the Lyric Theatre is booking through to 8 January 2023
ACCELERATOR RATE!
Groups of 10+: Price bands A & B in the Stalls & Dress Circle reduced to £39.50, Upper Circle & Balcony reduced to £29.50
Valid Tuesday-Thursday evenings
Groups of 10+: Price bands A & B in the Stalls & Dress Circle reduced to £45, Upper Circle & Balcony reduced to £35
Valid on Friday & Sunday evenings and Sunday matinees Book by 25 November 2022
Groups of 8+: Price bands A & B in the Stalls & Dress Circle reduced to £50.00
Groups of 20+: Price bands A & B in the Stalls & Dress Circle reduced to £45.00, Upper Circle & Balcony reduced to £35.00
Valid Tuesday-Thursday evenings
Groups of 8+: Price bands A & B in the Stalls & Dress Circle reduced to £60.00
Groups of 20+: Price bands A & B in the Stalls & Dress Circle reduced to £52.50, Upper Circle & Balcony reduced to £39.50
Valid Friday evenings, Sunday matinees & evenings and TuesdayThursday evenings over peak weeks School groups of 10+: Price bands B & C in the Upper Circle & Balcony reduced to £24.50, price bands D & E in the Balcony reduced to £17.50 + 1 free teacher per 10 paid Valid Tuesday & Wednesday evenings Terms & conditions and exclusions apply. Rates subject to availability and change without notice. Correct at time of print.
and David Albury (playing Bob Marley) embody the idealistic energy and courageous, charismatic flair of one of music’s greatest ever performers. A dynamic company of actors and singers combine with the very best live musicians to bring to the stage a show “so infectious it defies an audience not to sing and sway along.” The Guardian
Look lively, book while you can and experience irresistible classics like ‘Jamming’, ‘Exodus’, ‘Waiting in Vain’, ‘Three Little Birds’, ‘Could You Be Loved’, ‘Redemption Song’, ‘One Love’ and many more. Book while you can to see the life and music of a legend!
Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed fully-staged new production of Boublil and Schönberg’s LES MISÉRABLES is now playing at London’s Sondheim Theatre.
This brilliant new staging has taken the world by storm and has been hailed “Les Mis for the 21st Century” (Huffington Post), “the reborn dream of a production” (Daily Telegraph) and “perfect theatre in a perfect theatre” (Sunday Telegraph). Set amid the social and political struggles of 19th century France, West End favourite LES MISÉRABLES tells the story of former prisoner Jean Valjean, who is pursued for decades by his policeman nemesis, Javert. Their epic cat-and-mouse journey will take them from the French fields to the gritty Parisian sewers, amidst an enthralling story of broken dreams, unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit.
The magnificent score of LES MISÉRABLES includes the songs; “I Dreamed a Dream”, “On My Own”, “Bring Him Home”, “One Day More”,
“Master Of The House” and many more. Now, seen by over 130 million people worldwide in 53 countries and in 22 languages, this spectacular musical adaptation of Victor Hugo’s masterpiece continues to thrill audiences night after night in London’s West End.
LES MISÉRABLES is undisputedly one of the world’s most popular musicals.
Storm the barricades for a ticket!
LES
Before it’s too late, get where the Olivier award-winning action is
Book your tickets yesterday!
You have been in your role for a few weeks now. How has it been going?
I’m enjoying every single minute of it! The show is in a category of its own with its unbelievable tech, catchy score and hilarious script. Working alongside this talented cast is also a massive treat and I’m savouring every moment of the experience so far.
Tell us about the audition process.
The audition process was so fun. Having been a fan of the three films, I feel I had a good idea of the role before going in. I definitely found the audition team wanted my own version of Marty McFly which I found through the ongoing rounds. I also adored singing through the awesome playlist of songs from the show for my auditions because you can’t help but feel like a rockstar!
How does it feel to be playing such an iconic character?
It’s still very mind-boggling to me
that I get to play such an iconic role. Marty McFly is so cool and to be stepping into the shoes of Michael J Fox’s iconic character and giving my own take on it, is such an honour.
What is your favourite song to perform?
My favourite song to perform is Johnny B. Goode. When it’s me and that guitar rocking out I feel like I’m on another planet!
If you could go back or forward to any time, when would it be?
I’d definitely take a day trip to LIVE AID 85. That line up was INCREDIBLE.
Why should groups book to see the show?
This show will well and truly immerse you in the story of BACK TO THE FUTURE. Get ready for unbelievable visual effects, great music and a whole lot of laughs!
Sum the show up in 3 words.
ELECTRIC. HILARIOUS. MINDBLOWING.
Great Scott! It’s time for “perfect musical escapism” (Metro) with the winner of Best New Musical at the Olivier and WhatsOnStage Awards
When Marty McFly finds himself transported back to 1955 in a time machine built by the eccentric scientist Doc Brown, he accidentally changes the course of history. Now he’s in a race against time to fix the present, escape the past and send himself... back to the future.
Adapting this iconic story for the
BACK TO THE FUTURE THE MUSICAL at the Adelphi Theatre is booking through to 23 July 2023
ACCELERATOR RATE!
Groups of 10+: Stalls & Dress Circle seats reduced to £42.50, Upper Circle seats reduced to £32.50
Valid on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday evenings & Thursday matinees
Book by 25 November 2022
STANDARD GROUP RATES
Groups of 8+: Stalls & Dress Circle seats reduced to £55.00
Groups of 20+: Stalls & Dress Circle seats reduced to £49.50, Upper Circle seats reduced to £39.50
Valid on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday evenings & Thursday matinees
Telegraph
stage are the movie’s creators Bob Gale (Back to the Future trilogy) and Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump). The production features original music by multi-Grammy winners Alan Silvestri (Avengers: Endgame) and Glen Ballard (Michael Jackson’s Man in the Mirror), alongside hit songs from the movie including The Power of Love, Johnny B. Goode, Earth Angel and Back in Time.
Set your destination time and get ready for this “whacking great hit of spectacle, entertainment and nostalgia” (Mail on Sunday).
Groups of 8+: Stalls & Dress Circle seats reduced to £62.50
Groups of 20+: Stalls & Dress Circle seats reduced to £57.50
Valid on all Friday evenings and Monday, Wednesday, Thursday evenings & Thursday matinees on peak weeks
School groups of 10+: Rear Dress Circle & Stalls reduced to £35.00, Upper Circle seats reduced to £25.00
+ 1 free teacher per 10 paid
Valid on Monday, Wednesday evenings & Thursday matinees
Terms & conditions and exclusions apply. Rates subject to availability and change without notice. Correct at time of print.
We recently interviewed Ben Joyce who has just taken over the role of Marty McFly. Read on to see what he had to say about joining the cast…
Groups pay just £32.50 if booked by end of November!
Join the fun at MAMMA MIA!, the world’s sunniest, most exhilarating smash-hit musical! Since premiering in London’s West End over 23 years ago, ‘the ultimate feel-good show’ (Classic FM) has thrilled over 65 million people around the world.
Fall in love with the irresistibly funny tale of a mother, a daughter and three possible dads on a Greek
island idyll, all unfolding to the magic of ABBA’s timeless songs. The worldwide phenomenon has now been turned into two recordbreaking movies – MAMMA MIA! and MAMMA MIA! Here We Go Again.
Whatever age you are, you can’t help but have the time of your life at MAMMA MIA!
Step inside the magnificent surroundings of London County Hall and experience the intensity and drama of Agatha Christie’s gripping story of justice, passion and betrayal in a unique courtroom setting.
Now in its fifth year, WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION has captured the imagination of thousands enthralled by the case of Leonard Vole, accused of murdering a widow to inherit her wealth. The stakes are high - will Leonard survive the shocking witness testimony, will he be able
to convince the jury, and you of his innocence and escape the hangman’s noose?
Majestic foyer and bar areas and a spacious auditorium offer excellent ventilation and space for audiences to relax and enjoy this classic thriller in “the comfiest seats in London” (New York Times). Don’t miss this landmark stage production on London’s Southbank. Coach operators should pre-book a parking bay on Belvedere Road for Pick up and Drop off.
SEE YOU IN COURT.
Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the iconic Royal Albert Hall, this steam-punk inspired spectacle flies in to London January 2023.
In an alternate yet familiar past a Seeker discovers that in order to glimpse the marvels that lie below the surface we must first learn to close our eyes and trust our imaginations.
In his larger-than-life curio cabinet, the Seeker is convinced
that there exists a hidden, invisible world, a place where the craziest ideas and grandest dreams await.
A collection of otherworldly characters suddenly step into his makeshift mechanical world and jump to life one by one before his very eyes.
Seeing is disbelieving with KURIOS, gasp at the daring acrobatics, clever contortion and breath-taking talent of Cirque du Soleil that will delight all ages.
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The magical world of Narnia comes alive on stage
Step through the wardrobe into the enchanted kingdom of Narnia. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they wave goodbye to wartime Britain and embark on the most magical of adventures in a frozen, faraway land where they meet Mr Tumnus the faun, talking beavers, Aslan (the noble king of Narnia) and the coldest, most evil White Witch.
Voted the nation’s favourite novel
and engrossing readers for over 70 years, THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE now comes to the stage starring Samantha Womack as the White Witch and is guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages.
“Exhilarating. The most riveting production”
– The Guardian
Iconic family show THE SNOWMAN
to Peacock Theatre
Based on the much-loved picture book by Raymond Briggs CBE and the animated film directed by Dianne Jackson, this is the Birmingham Rep’s magical stage adaptation of the story, a London festive favourite that continues to enchant audiences of all ages and is a perfect introduction for children to dance.
Featuring colourful sets, extravagant costumes and exuberant dancing, the story follows the adventures of a young boy when his snowman comes to life on Christmas Eve. They fly to the North Pole where they meet a dazzling array of characters including dancing penguins, a snow princess, Jack Frost and even Father Christmas himself. Join them on their magical journey and relive a timeless classic that once again will bring you joy and wonder.
THE SNOWMAN is directed by Bill Alexander and features music and lyrics by Howard Blake, including masterpiece ‘Walking in the Air’, spectacular design by Ruari Murchison, magical lighting by Tim Mitchell, and amazing choreography by Robert North, all of which is accompanied by a live orchestra.
Jonathan Church (Singin’ In The Rain, The Drifters Girl) directs the iconic song-and-dance spectacular featuring a hit parade of toetapping songs including “42nd Street,” “We’re In The Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Shuffle Off To Buffalo” and “I Only Have Eyes For You.” Choreographed and designed by Olivier Award winners Bill Deamer and Rob Jones 42nd STREET is a timeless and inspiring showbiz fairy tale that combines breathtaking tap dance routines, backstage intrigue, classic romance and delightful comedy to dazzling effect. It’s simply irresistible!
Fresh off the bus from small-town America, young and beautiful Peggy Sawyer arrives in New York City dreaming of her name in lights. She quickly catches the eye of a bigtime director and lands a spot in the chorus line of Broadway’s newest show… and when the leading lady gets injured, Peggy gets her shot at stardom.
42nd STREET is a larger-than-life, massively entertaining celebration of musicals and the irrepressible spirit of Broadway that’s guaranteed to lift anyone’s spirits. Don’t miss it!
Conceived and directed by Channing Tatum, MAGIC MIKE
LIVE is an unforgettably fun night of sizzling, 360-degree entertainment based on the hit movies. It’s hot. It’s hilarious. It’s the great time you’ve been waiting for!
This first-class experience features some of the world’s sexiest, most talented guys performing heartracing dance routines in front of, above and all around you. Equal parts empowering and exhilarating,
MAGIC MIKE LIVE at the Hippodrome is booking through to 3 September 2023
Performances until 1 January 2023:
Groups of 8+: from £55
Valid on all performances except Saturdays at 7pm & 10pm
Groups of 15+: from £45
Groups of 20+: from £35 Valid on all performances except Fridays & Saturdays
Performances from 4 January
Groups of 8+: from
Valid on Saturdays at
the 90-minute show is punctuated by unexpected, temperatureraising acts from a thrilling range of acrobatic and musical talent.
In other words, it’s got basically everything. If you’re looking for the ultimate girls’ night out, look no further than MAGIC MIKE LIVE
If you’re NOT into letting your hair down, laughing out loud and really hot guys, then it’s probably not for you. It’s time to FREE YOUR MAGIC. So, stop looking… and start booking!
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